This Bach 42B tenor trombone was built in 1977 during the Corporation Era, one of the most collectible and respected periods of Bach production. It is a single-owner instrument, remarkably well preserved with no signs of previous damage or repair. All components are original, including the lacquer, which remains in excellent condition. The handslide is near flawless and responds with the clarity and ease that makes the 42B a benchmark for professional players.
The horn has been fully serviced in our shop, including a chemical bath, replacement of pads and bumpers, valve removal and casing polish, and a precision slide adjustment. The result is an instrument that plays exactly as a Corporation-era 42B should—centered, resonant, and powerful in all registers. Very few examples from this period remain this clean and original, making it an outstanding representative of late-1970s Bach craftsmanship.
This 42B includes the original Bach French-style case, which has also been well preserved. While collectors often assume Corporation-era production ended in 1976–77, instruments like this one, verified by serial number, prove that the engraving was still used as late as 1979. This fact adds both intrigue and historical significance to horns from this transitional moment in Bach’s history.
FAQs
Q: Why is the Bach 42B Corporation Era model so desirable?
A: Instruments from the Corporation Era (1963–late 1970s) are valued for their consistent build quality, slightly lighter bells, and rich tonal character. They represent some of the most admired production years in Bach history.
Q: When did Bach stop stamping “Corporation” on the bell?
A: Most sources place the end around 1976–77, but evidence shows some instruments, like this 1977 example, continued into 1979. Collectors prize these late Corporation horns as both rare and historically important.
Q: How does a 1970s Corporation 42B compare to modern Bach production?
A: Many players describe the Corporation bells as more colorful and responsive, with a unique balance of warmth and brilliance. They remain a standard for orchestral and solo playing.
This Bach 42B has been sold and is presented here as part of our historical archive. For similar instruments and current availability, please browse our trombones 👉. You can also view more examples in our Bach Historical Collection Archive.📖
